A: A Gen Xer is definitely interested in creating new paths. I don’t think it is a coincidence that Gen X brought us Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and other technological visionaries. There is a strong element of risk taking: While the previous generation, the Baby Boomers, were interested in establishing financial and familial security, Generation X recognized the considerable personal sacrifices their parents made to feel more secure and decided to prioritize entrepreneurship and individualism instead.

Q: What are a few unexpected things people would never guess about members of Generation X?

A: There is an underlying need for human connection shared with the Baby Boomers and not conveyed as strongly with younger generations. They love technology and progress, but they appreciate classic connections.

Q: How does this generation fundamentally differ from those which came before?

A: Generation X was perhaps the first generation not to prioritize Keeping Up with the Joneses. There is a strong amount of pride, but it lies in trailblazing new ideas and thoughts – not in driving a better car or having a bigger house. Materialism is less a driving force, something that is echoed even further in younger generations.

Q: How might Gen Xers be unexpectedly similar to other generations in ways casual observers might not expect?

A:The step away from materialism mentioned before, as well as the compassion to make the world a better place. Younger generations are arguably prioritizing innovation over social good, especially as technological advances lessen the need for human connection or for equal treatment. Gen X isn’t the poster child for equality – the Wall Street “Greed Is Good” mantra happened under its watch! – but there is a certain intimacy, if perhaps a patronizing one, that this generation has with those of different social strata.

Q: How are Gen Xers changing the way we communicate and interact?

A: If you are using Windows, calling on Skype, or reading this on a Kindle, you already know how this generation changed how we communicate and interact. In short, the foundation of which we live today, particularly in regards to tech, is the direct result of Gen X’s achievements. Gen Y and Millennials have done phenomenal work, but their work wouldn’t be possible with things like, say, the Internet or the modern smartphone. Those achievements hail back to older generations.

Q: How are Gen Xers and Millennials similar? Or are they different in fundamental ways?

A: They share a need to be recognized for brilliance – not wisdom per se, but in originality of thought. From the independent streak to the need for a higher calling, Gen Xers would have been just like Millennials if the Internet age happened two decades earlier.

Q: How are Gen Xers changing the way we do business?

A: Gen Xers want to stand out. The ways businesses reward their employees have changed: Instead of throwing money at people, they are now creating innovative ways to incentivize them to perform. Perhaps their achievements will be publically highlighted or a special gift will be given with their particular likes in mind. Recognition and respect now have equal footing to money itself.

Q: What influences most shape Gen Xers today? What influences have shaped them in the past? And what are they teaching us all as a result?

A: The idea that money isn’t the end goal and, ironically, that pursuing your passions can lead to a remarkable amount of wealth and power. Again, the tech industry is the best example of this paradigm shift. The philosophy is almost considered the norm now – make a passionate startup, starve for a while, then make a living – but it is a radical notion prompted by Gen X’s successes.

Q: How do Gen Xers daily, social and professional habits differ from other generations – and what would those hoping to communicate with them do well to know about these shifts?

A: Generation Xers are really a between generation: Baby Boomers were raised in the analog age of vinyl records and basic television, while Gen Yers grew up in the Internet age filled with mobile phones and custom content. Gen Xers respect the communication power of social media and smartphones, but also appreciate and need the intimacy offered with old-fashioned connecting.

For instance, the average Gen Xer wouldn’t appreciate a commercial website that has only an email or, worse, a fill-out form. The ability to actually call another human is valued.

Q: More and more Gen Xers are moving online for their news, information, shopping, and more. What’s the best way to capture their attention and interact with them these days?

A: Format the message as much as possible to the individual person or group. Blanket advertising or promotion was the standard for years, but now, in the post-TiVo age of customizable radio stations, time-tailored apps and individualized shopping suggestions, we all expect producers to tailor their conversation precisely to our interests.

It’s a thin line, as randomly using colloquialisms and slang usually creates a backlash against a company. Instead, be clear about how your product or service will make their lives better. The soft sell is the best approach to take.

Q: What does success look like for today’s Gen Xer in your opinion, and what’s driving them as they go about making decisions in business and life?

A: I think it is a balance between freedom (the priority of Gen Y) and security (the priority of Baby Boomers). It is having enough money not to worry about it, but not having money be the primary focus of one’s career. Finally, it is being known for doing something differently. Like other post-Baby Boomer generations, there is a need to feel like an individual outside of the pack and to be recognized for it.

Q: Anything we haven’t discussed that you’d like to add with regard to Gen Xers that individuals or organizations should be aware of?

A: I’d say just make sure that your message to them feels as tailored as possible. A generic, blanket call to action doesn’t work anymore, particularly for this generation!

Scott delivered an inspiring keynote session that was thought provoking, coherent and succinct, backed by real world consulting experience. It was one of the best sessions that I have ever attended. I highly recommend Scott for key note sessions on innovation and business strategy.

Logan Vadivelu, IBM

A polished and professional speaker, Scott’s ability to captivate investors and corporate leaders while making complex concepts simple has been of marked benefit to our programs.

Scott Phillips, Coleman Research Group

Thank you once again for speaking at our conference. Your session was very helpful in setting the tone overall, specifically the need for leaders to embrace change, take smart risks, and overcome their fears. We continue to receive positive.

Mortgage and Housing Team

Colleges, high schools and middle schools should keep Scott’s number handy: Teachers and educational institutes will find that his speeches, seminars and training programs offer powerful insights.

In a world of emerging technologies and automation, Scott’s speech couldn’t have been timelier. He understood the nuances of our industry and tailored the talk perfectly.Scott was a pleasure to work with and we would recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone searching for a vibrant and thoughtful speaker.

Debi Hamill, CEO, Intl Association of Outsourcing Professionals

Scott does a fantastic job of staying tuned to the ever-changing technology landscape. As a young father with real skin in the game, he connected with many of our parents and teachers and has them seeing things in a different light.

Daniel R. Scherry, Superintendent, North Spencer County School Corp.

Scott delivered an inspiring keynote address at our strategic retreat. The combination of theory and life experiences he presented, coupled with industry examples, delivered a powerful message that stimulated much thought and discussion from our leadership. I highly recommend him and look forward to working with him on future projects.

Alan Bortnick, Chief Human Resources Officer, LifeNet Health

A highly detailed-oriented consultant and analyst. Scott entered a team in heavy thrash and found a way to drive results, and provide insight and high value.

Mark Subotnick, Intel Corp.

One of best-informed and insightful analysts I have encountered. He has a wonderful ability to recognize and communicate evolving patterns that are driving the market.

Thomas Ryan, Analyst Strategy Group

Engaging. Relevant. Actionable. Scott’s unique understanding of products and process combined with his acute eye for marketing provides high educational value. You’ll be inspired and informed to build competitive advantage.

Grant Wickes, Wasp Barcode Tech

Scott is a polished speaker with the ability to inspire leaders and help them connect innovative ideas with practical business solutions that they can implement into their operations to drive immediate change and growth.

Jason Barnhart, Public Relations Society of America

A dynamic speaker and business thought leader whose workshops and training sessions have proven their worth for both me and my teams. I recommend him for a variety of audiences from interns to senior execs.

Corey Rosemond, Plantronics

It’s always a pleasure working with Scott. His speeches and presentations not only deliver powerful insight for business and consumer leaders, they also deliver massive value and takeaway for organizations of every kind.

Asante Bradford, GA Dept Economic Development

A great speaker for financial and government audiences… his workshop on finance and online fundraising was well worth attending.

Scott is a top-notch thinker, strategist, and advisor. After just a brief conversation about potential applications to the nonprofit sphere, I left with a toolbox of strategies to test and new ways of thinking. Scott is very insightful, down-to-earth, and clearly passionate about what he does.

Kristin Boehne, Mgr. Strategic Projects, United Way

Scott understands both the entrepreneurial mindset and new media. He was invaluable for our discussion on raising early capital for new entrepreneurs, providing sharp assessments, data and trends that made us all feel more ready to compete in the marketplace.

Lauren Brookey, Tulsa Community College

Scott’s unique expertise is wide and deep: He has a gift for making complex ideas easily understood. His presentations always offer valuable insight for audiences of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Ian Kelso, Canadian Interactive Alliance

Scott was a great chairman for our Cloud Conference and led the audience through a highly insightful and relevant discussion throughout the two-day agenda. He’s professional, accurate and a real pleasure to work with.

Ravi Virpal, FC Business Intelligence

Scott was a dynamic, to-the-point speaker. His real world examples of how companies can innovate in small, yet impactful ways, was refreshing and well-timed. In the field of corrections, we often are stymied by the daunting path of system reform. After hearing Scott speak, many of our staff began to rethink the go big or stay home approach and began to brainstorm small, innovative ways to improve the criminal justice system.

Brian Lovins, American Probation and Parole Association

I heard Scott speak at a business event and had to buy his book not only for my staff but all the companies in the UTD Venture Development Lab. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to become relevant.

Dee Anderson, University of Texas at Dallas

Not only is Scott a knowledgeable, go-to tech guru, but he is also a PR pro’s jack-of-all-trades! Thanks to his assistance, we were able to conduct a very productive and incredibly valuable consumer event for my client. I look forward to working with him again soon!

Lisa M. Rigney, Ogilvy Public Relations

Scott delivered a thought provoking, dynamic address on the importance of innovation in an increasingly competitive world. Backed up by solid research, he made the digital world simple, and provided thought leadership on how to drive your business forward.”

David Fowler, CIRA

Scott is an engaging and energizing speaker. He uses tangible examples to illustrate his insights and make them come alive for the audience.

Beth Hernandez-Casey, ReSource Pro

Scott’s remarks were thoughtful and well prepared, allowing educators of all levels to find pieces to take back to their schools. He was a pleasure to work with and a true professional – I hope our paths cross again.

International Boys' Schools

Having Scott Steinberg headline our conference turned out to be the best decision we could have possibly made for the kickoff of our 2012 Global Entrepreneurship week activities.

Partnership Center, Northeastern State Univ.

Scott is an engaging, knowledgeable speaker who brings a wealth of experience and insider expertise.

Jonathan Block-Verk, PromaxBDA Marketing

One of the best gurus on innovation and competitive advantage strategies to accelerate growth.

European Commission

“I really appreciated Scott’s point of view – he pointed out that innovation is the key, and to be successful, we should disrupt ourselves before our competitors do.”

Jean-Marc Barki, Sealock

Scott’s session was very well-received by attendees. As our closing keynote speaker, his motivational message about driving change through innovation and growth was a perfect way to end a successful event!

California Bankers Association

Knowledgeable, entertaining and so very easy to work with! Participants really appreciated Scott’s ability to share his knowledge in an easy to understand and engaging manner.

Wendy Keiver, Literacy & Learning Day

With over a hundred advertising agency and marketing executives attending, Scott’s leading with innovation speech hit the mark. Drawing on a wealth of case examples and research, Scott captured the audience’s attention with high energy and pacing, and a healthy dose of good humor. We’re already planning the next one…”

Bela Papp, Microsoft Advertising

Scott helped create real understanding about how to become more innovative and rapidly responsive to new ideas and change. There was great engagement with the attendees, and his panel facilitation with the panel helped to drive the message home. Overall a big win for everyone in attendance.

Ron Apel, CEO, Ex-Sell Sales and Merchandising Canada

Scott is a fantastic speaker. He energizes the audience and delivers a relevant message.

RD Whitney, Institute of Finance and Management

Of all the so-called gurus out there, Scott is far and away the best! His knowledge, dedication and expertise are the reason that we at Procter & Gamble keep coming back!

Scott Eisenstein, Procter & Gamble

“Wondrous presentation… Scott’s dynamic presence at the Singapore Parenting Congress 2014 led the audience to leave with highly valuable knowledge. Truly, Scott is a gem that we were privileged to have grace our congress.”

I commend Scott’s ability to deliver a high-impact message. We had our annual conference on innovation technology… and it was an intense, motivational segment he provided. I highly recommend him to anyone in the financial world.

Nick Coughlin, Innovate Mississippi

I wholeheartedly recommend Scott as a speaker and presenter. He recently gave a keynote address and received high marks from the audience, and brought home to them the importance of creating a culture to implement change. He was easy to work with in developing content, able to build his presentation to fit our audience, professional, and engaging.

Liz Whitney, Intl Warehouse Logistics Association

A first-rate speaker: Scott is a dynamic speaker who delivered a thought provoking session at InfoComm. I would recommend him for a variety of audiences.

Eric Suger, MicroTek

Scott is a well-known expert and prolific speaker capable of effortlessly delivering messages on target. His unique talents proved invaluable to our project and we are eager to work with him again.

Ranson Burkette, ESET

In addition to being a dynamic and engaging speaker, Scott’s insights into coming trends, and how to stay ahead of them, are impeccable – associations and businesses of every size would do well to heed them. A tremendous speaker who’s capable of engaging and entertaining audiences of every background, including business and association leaders of every field – Scott’s presentations are a must-see for leaders at every level.

Harriet Levine, Founder + President, Stuart Levine & Assoc./EduLeader

Scott delivers a clear and succinct study of industry trends and winning company cultures. His strengths are that he delivers “in the moment” information and examples of pertinent industry issues that resonate well with the audience. I expect to see Scott back at LifeNet Health talking at our various company forums.

Rony Thomas, Pres. & CEO, LifeNet Health

Scott’s keynote address on the importance of innovation was made all the more relevant as he brought his insights to an engaging panel discussion on big data, and how to make better use of large and complex data sets. Innovation in this context can mean better business decisions and an advantage in this increasingly competitive world.

Steve Gruppo, Chair, CRO Council

Scott offered a thought-provoking perspective on what every business can learn from technology companies, regardless of industry or niche.

Cheryl Martel, National Association of Corporate Directors

Scott Steinberg is a world-renowned pundit on the merits of technology, content and video engagement. His workshop at this year’s PR Summit was one of the most attended sessions of the day. I recommend him highly and look forward to working with him on future projects.

Shaun Saunders, PR Summit Conference Series

Best session so far…. It was insightful and encouraged action [combined] with practical advice. I very much appreciated the multiple tips to help exercise judgment on organizations’ current state and questions to ask directly of boards/employees. It offered informative, tangible takeaways. Fabulous – 4.9 out of 5 stars!

National Association of Corporate Directors

We invited Scott to participate in a high profile management training course at our company. His involvement included contributing to the development of the content as well as delivering his message on video. The outcome was spot-on – not only by infusing his brand of knowledge and expertise but by energizing and challenging the participants. His messaging was relevant and relateable. Aside from this, he is one of the most professional and easy to work with collaborators I have ever dealt with.

Senior Producer, OptumRx

Highly recommended… Super sharp, well equipped, adaptable and finely polished, Scott’s strategic thinking is second to none: We’ve enlisted his talents as a speaker on multiple occasions and are constantly begging him to come back.

Steve Fowler, Ayzenberg Group Advertising

Scott’s messages about change, culture, innovation, and becoming remarkable provide wisdom from which every company should learn.

Bill Sproull, Metroplex Technology Business Council

Tremendously entertaining and insightful, Scott’s presentations consistently keep audiences on the edge of their seat. Among the most popular speakers at our events, associations and meeting planners would do well to keep his number on hand.

Kristina Hudson, Washington Int. Network

Scott’s talk was the highlight of the six-week event! He gave concrete, actionable examples for our students, was an absolute pleasure to work with and I highly recommend him as a teacher and speaker!

Gretchen VanEsselstyn, Mediabistro

Scott did a fantastic job encouraging our company’s business leaders’ excitement and curiosity in changing technologies. His message was perfectly on point.

Tom Bauer, CIO, Hagerty

Scott not only delivered a brilliant and extremely well-researched message, but his passion resounded throughout the entire presentation as he energized everyone in the room. From the minute he was introduced, he connected with the audience and both educated and entertained.

Barry Clark, Open Innovation at NSU

As a keynote speaker for thousands of EMC employees, customers, and partners, and in intimate conversations with top executives, Scott was a dynamo. His insights enabled EMC to spark change and innovation on a global scale. I highly recommend him to any company interested in building innovative culture, disruptive problem-solving approaches or positive change in their organization.

Calvin Smith, EMC Corporation

Scott spoke and was a tremendous success! His wealth of professional experiences translated into truly engaging stories that helped apply the rich content of his book into practical, useful and actionable steps. Participants thoroughly enjoyed Scott’s warm and engaging personality, along with the tools he recommends for overcoming fear and effectively competing in today’s ever-changing work environments.

Lawrence Chomicki Jr., Assoc. of Change Management Professionals

Scott was phenomenal: We were very impressed by not only his content but also his presentation style. The session was fantastic – I suspect his speech will be a frequently downloaded presentation in our webinar archives.

Deborah Kasoff, Consumer Electronics Assoc.

Scott’s expertise makes him a valuable asset and innovative marketer. His passion and talents show through when brainstorming, creating plans, and strategically putting the pieces together when solving client issues. Scott is a go-getter, detail-oriented, dedicated team player and valuable resource. With technology changing every day, Scott is used to working in a fast-paced environment and always remains calm under pressure. He always goes the extra mile to ensure the best quality product…